Darsatang

Darsatang is a term used, primarily in academic and development contexts, to describe a participatory action research (PAR) approach focused on community-led data collection and analysis for social change. It emphasizes empowering marginalized communities to define their own research questions, collect relevant data that reflects their lived experiences, analyze the data to identify key issues and potential solutions, and then take action based on those findings. The term signifies a cyclical process of inquiry, reflection, and action, driven by the community itself.

The core principles of Darsatang include:

• Community Ownership: The research process is controlled and directed by the community members themselves, rather than external researchers.
• Participatory Methods: Data collection and analysis involve the active participation of community members at all stages.
• Social Justice Focus: The research aims to address inequalities and promote social change for the benefit of the community.
• Empowerment: The process is designed to build the capacity of community members to understand and address their own problems.
• Action-Oriented: The research is not simply for knowledge generation but to lead to concrete actions and interventions.

Darsatang differs from traditional research methods by shifting the power dynamic from researchers to the community. It recognizes that community members possess valuable knowledge and insights that are crucial for understanding their own realities. While the specific methodologies employed can vary depending on the context, the underlying philosophy remains consistent: to empower communities to use research as a tool for self-determination and social transformation.